California Pizza Kitchen’s butter cake is a decadent dessert with a rich, moist texture and a golden crust. This California Pizza Kitchen butter cake recipe recreates the restaurant’s iconic treat at home. It’s perfect for special occasions or a cozy indulgence.
The cake’s signature buttery flavor comes from simple ingredients like cream cheese and vanilla. This recipe is straightforward, delivering a warm, comforting dessert with minimal effort. You’ll need an oven and a few basic tools to make it.
From mixing the batter to serving it warm, we’ll guide you through every step. You’ll learn how to make a California Pizza Kitchen butter cake recipe that rivals the original. Let’s dive into this sweet, buttery delight.
Why Choose California Pizza Kitchen Butter Cake?
This butter cake offers a rich, dense texture with a caramelized top. It’s a crowd-pleaser that pairs perfectly with ice cream or berries. The recipe is simple, ideal for bakers of all skill levels.
Using pantry staples, it’s a cost-effective way to enjoy a restaurant-quality dessert. The warm, gooey center makes it irresistible. You’ll impress guests with minimal effort.
Baking in an oven ensures a consistent, golden finish. This California Pizza Kitchen butter cake recipe delivers reliable results. It’s a versatile treat for any gathering.
What You Need for Butter Cake
For the cake, gather 1 cup all-purpose flour, 1 cup granulated sugar, ½ cup unsalted butter, 4 oz cream cheese, 1 large egg, 1 teaspoon vanilla extract, ½ teaspoon baking powder, and a pinch of salt. For the glaze, you’ll need ¼ cup sugar, 2 tablespoons butter, and 1 teaspoon vanilla extract.
You’ll need four 6-ounce ramekins or a 9-inch round pan for baking. A mixing bowl, electric mixer or whisk, and a spatula are essential. Parchment paper helps with easy removal if using a pan.
Optional toppings include vanilla ice cream or whipped cream. A measuring cup and spoons ensure accuracy. Gather all ingredients before starting for a smooth process.
Factors Affecting Baking Success
Oven temperature accuracy impacts the cake’s texture and rise. An oven thermometer ensures a steady 350°F (175°C). Convection ovens may bake slightly faster than conventional ones.
The cream cheese’s temperature affects the batter’s smoothness. Softened cream cheese blends better, avoiding lumps. Let it sit at room temperature for 30 minutes.
Batter consistency is key for a dense, moist cake. It should be thick but spreadable. Adjust with a teaspoon of milk if too stiff for this California Pizza Kitchen butter cake recipe.
California Pizza Kitchen Butter Cake Recipe
To make this California Pizza Kitchen butter cake recipe, bake at 350°F (175°C) for 25-30 minutes in ramekins or 35-40 minutes in a pan, then top with a buttery glaze. The batter takes 10 minutes to prepare, the glaze 5 minutes, and cooling about 10 minutes. Follow these steps for a warm, decadent cake.
Preparing the Batter
In a large bowl, cream ½ cup softened butter, 4 oz softened cream cheese, and 1 cup sugar until light and fluffy, about 3 minutes. Add 1 egg and 1 teaspoon vanilla extract, mixing until smooth. Sift together 1 cup flour, ½ teaspoon baking powder, and a pinch of salt.
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring until just combined. Avoid overmixing to keep the cake tender. The batter should be thick and creamy.
Divide the batter evenly among four greased 6-ounce ramekins or pour into a greased 9-inch round pan. Smooth the top with a spatula. Tap gently to remove air bubbles.
Preparing the Glaze
In a small saucepan, melt 2 tablespoons butter over low heat. Stir in ¼ cup sugar and 1 teaspoon vanilla extract until dissolved. The glaze should be smooth and slightly syrupy.
Set the glaze aside to cool slightly before using. It will be brushed over the warm cakes after baking. If too thick, add a teaspoon of water to thin it out.
Prepare the glaze while the cakes bake for efficiency. Ensure it’s ready to apply as soon as the cakes are done. This adds a shiny, buttery finish.
Baking the Cake
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes. Place the ramekins or pan on the middle rack for even baking. Bake ramekins for 25-30 minutes or a 9-inch pan for 35-40 minutes until golden and a toothpick comes out clean.
Check at the minimum time to avoid overbaking. The edges should be set, but the center may remain slightly soft. Let the cakes cool in the ramekins or pan for 5-10 minutes.
Brush the warm glaze over the cakes immediately after cooling slightly. This enhances the buttery flavor and adds shine. Serve warm for the best texture.
Tips for Perfect Butter Cake
Use room-temperature butter and cream cheese for a smooth batter. Measure flour by spooning and leveling to avoid a dense cake. Follow this California Pizza Kitchen butter cake recipe for consistent results.
Bake until just golden to keep the cake moist. Brush the glaze on while warm for maximum absorption. Let the cakes cool slightly before serving to set the texture.
Serve with a scoop of ice cream or whipped cream for extra decadence. Store properly to maintain moisture. Practice improves presentation and texture over time.
Topping Variations and Prep Times
Toppings enhance the cake’s rich flavor. Below is a table with options to elevate this California Pizza Kitchen butter cake recipe.
| Topping Type | Preparation | Prep Time |
|---|---|---|
| Vanilla Ice Cream | Scoop and serve | 2 minutes |
| Fresh Berries | Wash and place | 5 minutes |
| Whipped Cream | Whip with sugar | 5 minutes |
Add toppings just before serving for a fresh, appealing look. Prep times are minimal, keeping the recipe simple. Choose toppings that complement the buttery flavor.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Overbaking can dry out the cake. Check at 25 minutes for ramekins or 35 minutes for a pan with a toothpick. Cover with foil if the top browns too quickly.
Using cold butter or cream cheese can create a lumpy batter. Let them soften at room temperature for 30 minutes. This ensures a smooth, creamy texture.
Overmixing the batter can make the cake dense. Stir just until combined for a tender crumb. Follow this California Pizza Kitchen butter cake recipe carefully.
Adjusting for Different Baking Dishes
Four 6-ounce ramekins are ideal for individual servings. A 9-inch round pan works for a single cake, baking for 35-40 minutes. An 8×8-inch square pan bakes in 30-35 minutes.
For larger pans, reduce the batter slightly or expect a thinner cake. Check for doneness earlier with smaller ramekins. Adjust glaze to cover the surface evenly.
Grease ramekins or pans well, or line with parchment for larger pans. This ensures easy removal and clean slices. The recipe adapts to various dishes with minor tweaks.
Benefits of Homemade Butter Cake
This recipe is budget-friendly, using simple ingredients like butter and flour. It recreates a restaurant favorite at a fraction of the cost. You’ll impress guests with minimal effort.
The cake’s rich, buttery flavor is perfect for dessert or special occasions. It pairs well with ice cream, fruit, or coffee. It’s a versatile, indulgent treat.
Baking at home lets you control ingredients, avoiding artificial additives. This California Pizza Kitchen butter cake recipe delivers consistent, warm results. It’s a dessert everyone will love.
Creative Serving Ideas
Serve warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a classic pairing. Add fresh raspberries or strawberries for a tart contrast. These enhance the cake’s buttery richness.
Drizzle with a light caramel sauce for extra decadence. A sprinkle of powdered sugar adds a simple, elegant touch. Keep toppings light to highlight the cake’s texture.
Present in ramekins for individual servings or slice a larger cake into wedges. Pair with coffee or tea for a cozy dessert. These ideas make your cake a standout treat.
- Ice Cream Pairing: Serve with vanilla ice cream for creaminess.
- Berry Topping: Add fresh berries for a pop of color.
- Caramel Drizzle: Drizzle with caramel sauce for sweetness.
Storing and Reheating Your Cake
Store the cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. Refrigerate for up to 5 days to maintain freshness. Cover tightly to prevent drying out.
Freeze unfrosted cakes for up to 2 months, wrapped in plastic and foil. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating. Glaze after thawing for best results.
Reheat in the oven at 300°F (149°C) for 5-7 minutes. Microwaving can make it soggy, so avoid it. Serve warm for the best flavor and texture.
Summary
This California Pizza Kitchen butter cake recipe takes 25-40 minutes to bake at 350°F, creating a rich, moist cake with a buttery glaze. Prepare a creamy batter, bake in ramekins or a pan, and brush with glaze while warm. Use room-temperature ingredients and check for doneness to ensure perfection. With these steps, you’ll enjoy a restaurant-style butter cake at home.
FAQ
Can I use low-fat cream cheese for this recipe?
Yes, but full-fat cream cheese gives a richer flavor and texture. Low-fat may result in a slightly softer cake. Stick to the California Pizza Kitchen butter cake recipe for best results.
What if I don’t have ramekins?
Use a 9-inch round or 8×8-inch square pan, baking for 35-40 minutes. Check for doneness with a toothpick. Adjust glaze to cover the surface evenly.
Can I make the cake ahead of time?
Yes, bake the cakes and store at room temperature for up to 2 days. Refrigerate for longer storage, up to 5 days. Glaze and serve warm for freshness.
How do I prevent the cake from sticking?
Grease ramekins or pans thoroughly or line with parchment paper. Run a knife around the edges after cooling for 5 minutes. This ensures easy removal.
Can I freeze this butter cake?
Yes, freeze unfrosted cakes for up to 2 months, wrapped tightly. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating. Glaze after thawing for best texture.